Following in a long line of Phillies pitchers that can hit, Wilson Valdez's name certainly comes to mind, Cliff Lee delivered at the dish on Thursday afternoon, ripping a bases-loaded ground-rule double to deep center before plating another RBI later in the game with a single. Lee was the first Phillies pitcher to notch three RBIs since Cory Lidle way back in 2004.
"He likes to hit and he wants to be a good hitter," Manuel said. "He takes a very aggressive cut in the game. Once he learns to stay on breaking balls and change ups a little more, he might become a very good hitter." [video below]
As for his work on the mound, Cliff was far from perfect, giving up a couple of early runs and another mammoth blast from Phillies killer Jay Bruce. But he battled through the warm weather and put the offense in a position to get the win, and the offense delivered.
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Everybody Hits!
Every Phillies starting position player had a hit today and scored at least one run apiece. Clifton notched two hits and three RBIs, but failed to cross home. Despite some fancy base-running, Cliff can't always be perfect.
Raul Ibanez continued his hot streak, putting another ball into the seats. Dom Brown notched a couple of hits, Michael Martinez contributed in place of Jimmy, Chase Utley hit his first homer of the year, and the Phils win another series.
It's up to New York for the Phils for a holiday weekend series. Remember: Mercy is for the weak.
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